Are Caribbean Cruises All-Inclusive?
One of the most common misconceptions about cruising is that it's "all-inclusive." Trip Sturtridge explains exactly what's included in your cruise fare—and what will add up on your onboard account.
What's Included in Your Cruise Fare
Your Caribbean cruise fare covers: accommodation (cabin for all nights), all main dining room meals (typically 3 meals daily), buffet meals (available most of the day), basic onboard activities (fitness center, pools, trivia, deck games, live shows), entertainment (Broadway-style productions, comedy shows, movies), and non-alcoholic beverages at meals (water, coffee, tea, lemonade, and juice).
What Costs Extra
Most Caribbean cruises charge extra for: alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, cocktails at $8–$16 each), specialty coffee drinks (lattes, cappuccinos), specialty dining restaurants ($15–$50 per person), spa services, casino, professional photos, internet packages ($15–$30/day), shore excursions ($50–$250+ per person), and gratuities ($15–$20 per person per day, typically auto-billed). These costs can easily double the base fare of a budget cruise.
Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
Most cruise lines offer beverage packages at $50–$100 per person per day that include unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The math: if you consume 4+ alcoholic drinks daily, a package typically pays for itself. Note that packages must be purchased for all adults in the same cabin. If one person drinks and one doesn't, calculate whether the single drinker's consumption justifies the combined package cost.
Gratuities: Budget for This First
Cruise lines automatically add gratuities (sometimes called "hotel service charges") of $15–$20 per person per day. On a 7-day cruise for two, that's $210–$280 added to your onboard account. This is non-negotiable in practice—though technically adjustable at guest services. Budget for gratuities before anything else when planning your total cruise cost.
Shore Excursions: The Biggest Variable
Shore excursions are the largest potential expense beyond the cruise fare. Cruise line excursions range from $50 (beach shuttle) to $300+ (helicopter glacier tour equivalent). Independent excursions booked through local operators are typically 30–50% cheaper. On a 7-day Caribbean cruise with 5 port days, budget $200–$600 per person for excursions depending on your activity preferences.
Total Budget Estimate for a 7-Day Caribbean Cruise
Base cruise fare (interior cabin): $600–$1,200/person. Gratuities: $105–$140/person. Beverage package (optional): $350–$700/person. Shore excursions (3–5 days): $150–$400/person. Specialty dining (2–3 meals): $60–$150/person. Internet (optional): $105–$210/person. Total per-person estimate: $1,370–$2,800 for an interior cabin with packages and excursions.
Are any Caribbean cruises truly all-inclusive?
Virgin Voyages includes most beverages, gratuities, and basic Wi-Fi in their fares. Some luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas offer fully all-inclusive pricing. Most mainstream Caribbean cruise lines are not truly all-inclusive.
Can I avoid paying gratuities on a cruise?
Technically yes—you can request gratuity adjustments at guest services. However, gratuities support the hardworking crew. We strongly recommend paying them in full.
How do I pay for things on a cruise ship?
Most ships use a cashless system—your keycard (also your room key) is linked to a credit card. All onboard purchases are charged to your card, with a final statement at the end of the cruise.
Is room service free on Caribbean cruises?
Most cruise lines include basic continental breakfast room service free of charge. Full room service menus typically carry a delivery fee of $5–$10, though some premium lines include it.